Family Escape to the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen

Into the Blue: Discovering Chefchaouen's Soul

Today was a day of deeper immersion into the heart of Chefchaouen. Leaving the familiar comforts of Hotel Dar Mounir behind, Sofia, Klaus and I ventured out, ready to explore more of what this magical blue city has to offer. I was particularly excited, as today’s itinerary promised a blend of cultural enrichment and delightful culinary experiences, perfect for sharing with my family.


Discover the enchanting Hotel Dar Mounir in Chefchaouen, where comfort meets culture, and unforgettable experiences await every traveler.

Our morning began with a traditional Moroccan breakfast at Café Sindibad. The café was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with the rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine. I ordered us a selection of local favorites: msemen, fluffy pancakes, and a steaming pot of mint tea. The msemen was perfectly crisp on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside, and the mint tea, oh, the mint tea! It was sweet, fragrant, and utterly refreshing, the perfect way to awaken our senses. Sofia especially loved the pancakes, drizzling them generously with honey and declaring them the best she’d ever had. Sipping on the mint tea, I savored the moment, grateful for the chance to share these simple joys with my family. The weather was already warming up, with the promise of a hot, sunny day ahead. According to the forecasts, August in Chefchaouen usually brings highs around 90°F (32°C), so we made sure to apply sunscreen before heading out.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Sindibad in Chefchaouen – a cozy haven for food lovers seeking local delicacies.

After breakfast, we strolled towards the Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen, a historical landmark that dominates Place Outa el Hammam. The mosque, with its unique octagonal minaret, dates back to the 15th century and stands as a testament to the city's rich Islamic heritage. Though non-Muslims are not allowed to enter, we admired its architecture from the outside, taking in the intricate details and the serene atmosphere of the surrounding square. I explained to Sofia the significance of the mosque in Chefchaouen’s history, how it had been a place of worship and a center for community gatherings for centuries. As we stood there, I couldn't help but reflect on my own roots in Morocco, and the importance of preserving these cultural landmarks for future generations.


Discover the stunning Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen, an architectural gem that embodies the rich cultural heritage of Morocco amidst the breathtaking blue-washed city.

Exploring Chefchaouen is like stepping into a living painting, where every corner reveals a new shade of blue and a deeper connection to its vibrant history.

Next on our list was a leisurely walk along Boulevard Mohamed V, a bustling street lined with shops, cafes, and local vendors. The boulevard was alive with activity, a vibrant mix of locals going about their daily routines and tourists soaking in the sights and sounds. We wandered past shops selling traditional Moroccan crafts, colorful textiles, and aromatic spices. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the displays of djellabas and babouches, traditional Moroccan clothing and slippers. I couldn’t resist buying her a small, hand-painted tagine as a souvenir, a little piece of Chefchaouen to take back home to Bonn. The temperature was climbing, and the sun beat down on us, but the lively atmosphere of the boulevard kept our spirits high. We stopped at a small café for some refreshing orange juice, watching the world go by as we sipped our drinks. I thought about how different this vibrant scene was from our quiet life in Bonn, and I cherished the contrast, the opportunity to experience a different culture and way of life.


Discover the magical blue streets of Chefchaouen, Morocco's enchanting mountain town filled with vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine.

For lunch, we headed to Restaurant Ali Baba, a place recommended for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy, inviting atmosphere, and the menu was filled with traditional dishes that made my mouth water. Klaus and I both opted for the tagine, a slow-cooked stew of meat and vegetables, infused with fragrant spices. Sofia, ever the adventurous eater, decided to try the couscous, a fluffy grain served with a flavorful broth and tender pieces of chicken. The tagine was rich and savory, the meat falling off the bone, and the vegetables cooked to perfection. Sofia devoured her couscous, declaring it even better than the one I make at home. As we ate, we chatted about our favorite moments of the trip so far, laughing and sharing stories. It was moments like these, simple and filled with love, that made this family escape so special.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Ali Baba in Chefchaouen's enchanting blue streets.

In the late afternoon, seeking a bit of respite from the heat, we decided to visit Cafe Clock. I had heard about its reputation as a cultural hub, a place where locals and tourists mingled, enjoying music, storytelling, and delicious food. As luck would have it, today was Qanun Music Monday, and the café was alive with the sounds of traditional Moroccan music. The qanun player was incredibly talented, his fingers dancing across the strings, creating melodies that were both haunting and uplifting. Sofia was mesmerized, her eyes glued to the musician as he played. We sipped on refreshing iced mint teas and soaked in the atmosphere, letting the music wash over us. It was a truly magical experience, a moment of cultural immersion that I knew we would all cherish.


Explore authentic Moroccan flavors and vibrant culture at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen, where every meal is a journey through tradition.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to The Magic Lamp House of Aladin for dinner, a restaurant known for its stunning views of the city. The restaurant's terrace offered a panoramic vista of Chefchaouen, the blue-washed buildings stretching out before us like a dream. The air was cooler now, a welcome change from the heat of the day, and the sky was ablaze with color as the sun dipped below the horizon. We ordered a selection of Moroccan dishes to share: lemon chicken tagine, beef couscous, and traditional Moroccan soup. The food was delicious, each dish bursting with flavor, but it was the view that truly stole the show. As we ate, we watched as the lights of Chefchaouen began to twinkle, transforming the blue city into a magical wonderland. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience the magic of Moroccan cuisine blended with delightful chocolate creations at The Magic Lamp House of Aladin in Targha.

Reflecting on our experiences today, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Chefchaouen has a way of captivating the soul, of drawing you in with its beauty and its warmth. Sharing this experience with my family, seeing the wonder in Sofia’s eyes, has made it all the more special. As we head back to Hotel Dar Mounir, I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which will include a visit to the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen and Bab El Ain. I am excited to learn more about the history and culture of this enchanting city, and to continue creating memories with my loved ones.

Tonight, as I write this, I am filled with a sense of peace and contentment. Chefchaouen has a way of slowing down time, of allowing you to savor each moment, each experience. It is a place where you can truly connect with yourself, with your loved ones, and with the world around you. And for that, I am eternally grateful.